Derivatives of 2-dicyanomethylen-3-cyano-2,5-dihydrofuran (DCDHF) have been synthesized by different methods to be used as photorefractive (PR) chromophores. Structure modifications were performed on the donor, acceptor and conjugated π-system for improving properties such as glass formation. Structure-property relationships important for PR applications are discussed from the results of studies including UV-Vis, electrochemistry and DSC.